Climate scientists may have reached a consensus about the danger of human contributions to climate change, but getting a political consensus for how to respond will take some time at the Washington state Capitol.

Oasis. Hidden jewel. Diamond in the rough. These arent typical descriptions for storm retention ponds abutting commercial development and Interstate 5. But ask people familiar with Wards Lake Park in Lakewoods northeastern corner, and thats how they describe the man-made lake and the trails that surround it.

Entering her final year in office, former Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire found herself in a difficult spot. Indian tribes, powerful supporters of the governor, wanted stricter water pollution rules. Meanwhile, her powerful supporters in the aerospace industry  spearheaded by The Boeing Co.  were dead set against tightening the rules. Aerospace won.